A tragic incident in Jigawa State has triggered outrage after a 50-year-old woman, identified as Furera Ibrahim, lost her life following accusations of witchcraft allegedly made by a native doctor.
The attack, reportedly carried out by relatives of an ailing woman, has renewed conversations around harmful traditional beliefs and mob justice in Northern Nigeria.
The assault occurred in Kwarin Shiddi of Katuka Village in Kiyawa Local Government Area when a group of individuals invaded Furera’s residence and launched a brutal attack.
Moreover, the assailants accused the mother of being spiritually responsible for their family member’s prolonged illness.
Witnesses revealed that the attackers acted on the claims of a native doctor consulted for treatment for a woman battling prolonged sickness.
One resident explained that the group returned from the consultation and pointed to Furera as the cause of the family’s misfortune.
“They believed they had found the source of their problem simply because someone claimed it,” the witness said, adding that “the mob came prepared with weapons and ignored every attempt to stop them.”
Furthermore, two of Furera’s sons were injured while trying to intervene and protect their mother during the attack.
They were later rushed to Shekoni Teaching Hospital for medical care where they remain under close observation.
The Police Public Relations Officer in Jigawa, SP Lawan Shiisu Adam, confirmed the incident, describing the investigation as ongoing.
Adam stressed that the authorities are treating the matter with seriousness, adding that “anyone connected to the attack will be held accountable according to the law.”
Human rights advocates in the state have condemned the killing. The Jigawa State Human Rights Network vowed to pursue justice for the deceased, emphasizing the need to end mob attacks driven by superstitions.
A representative of the network stated, “No community should allow fear and superstition to replace the rule of law. This case will not be swept aside.”
Hence, the disturbing incident highlights the continued challenges in addressing traditional beliefs that fuel violence.
It also raises questions around access to healthcare, public enlightenment, and the need for justice-driven deterrence to curb future incidents.